Hiking poles and walking sticks offer many of the same benefits: Extra stability when going up or down steep slopes, a third point of balance when crossing moving water, an arm extension for moving bushes or spider webs out of the way, a probe for testing water depth and an impromptu tent pole. Choosing between the two styles of support usually boils down to a question of cost, personal style and convenience.
Length
A set of hiking poles should be long enough that you can comfortably hold the handles with your elbows bent at a 90-degree angle. Many modern hiking poles telescope so that you can lengthen them for downhill trips and shorten them for going uphill. A walking stick is usually longer. According to Trailmaster.com, a good walking stick should reach about six inches higher than your elbow. Some walking sticks telescope, too, but most do not.
Considerations
One of the few disadvantages to using hiking poles or a walking stick is that you may find your hands full when they're most needed for balance or handling other objects. Many high-quality hiking poles telescope, making them easy to store strapped to a backpack or hold tucked under your arm. A walking stick may be harder to carry, since it's longer, but because you use just one walking stick at a time you always have at least one hand free.
Materials
Trekking poles are usually made of light, durable materials like aluminum or titanium alloy. While you may encounter hi-tech walking sticks made of these materials---usually the telescoping sort---walking sticks are often made of natural materials like wood. All trekking poles and many walking sticks come with tips, usually made of either rubber or metal, to help you maintain traction.
Cost
While an ornate, hand-carved walking stick may cost hundreds of dollars, you can purchase a well-made for under $100. Many hiking pole sets are available for under $100, too, although the high-end models will typically cost between $100 and $200.
Convenience
You can pick up any long, sturdy stick on the trail and use it as a walking stick if you need support in a pinch. This makes the walking stick in its basic form much more convenient, in its own way, than the hiking poles that you must remember to bring from home if you plan to use them.
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